Ohio Senator Blames Connecticut’s Drive-Only Licenses for Fatal Crash

Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio sent a letter to Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont denouncing the state’s practice of providing “drive-only” licenses to undocumented residents, arguing that it contributed to the death of Austin J. Karr Grimes, a 29-year-old from Fayette. The incident involved Washington G. Naula Ochoa, a 34-year-old charged with vehicular homicide after his truck entered an intersection without yielding and struck Grimes’ SUV, causing the fatal crash.

Moreno cited one outlet 13 Action News report that also mentioned a 3-year-old child injured in the same event. He claimed Connecticut has issued nearly 60,700 such licenses, creating “nearly 61,000 additional opportunities” for illegal immigrants to cause harm on highways, and urged the governor to adopt Ohio’s stricter licensing rules. Lamont expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and argued that the licenses improve road safety by ensuring drivers are tested, insured, and less likely to flee accidents.

The senator demanded an apology and answers to several questions about the program’s impact within five days. The article notes that Ohio does not offer comparable licenses, requiring proof of legal status for drivers.